September 2009 Branching out: Genealogical Facelift

September 2009 Branching out: Genealogical Facelift

Houston’s William L. Clayton home has for decades been both a historic landmark and the public library system’s renowned Clayton Library Center for Genealogical Research. A renovation completed in March will keep it in service of both purposes.

“The successful restoration project has given the Clayton home new life and will provide a wonderful space for community gatherings as well as genealogical discussions and workshops” says Rhea Brown Lawson, director of the Houston Public Library.

Renovations and repairs included lifting a sunken corner of the house, installing lights that automatically dim and brighten, and removing layers of lead paint that concealed pristine cypress window frames. The research center got an additional 2,500 feet of shelving, new equipment and plenty of reclaimed space to serve as a FamilySearch Center, where library patrons can rent Family History Library microfilm.